The Golden City 

Salamanca is an old place, and its premiere university was founded around the 13th century. Because of its unique sandstone composition, it is also known as the Golden City, where the buildings have a unique reddish gold hue that evokes a sense of antiquity and ancient magnificence. The University itself is one of the oldest active institutes of learning in the world, where students from all over the world come to broaden their minds. It’s amazing to imagine the number of students from across the centuries who learned here. Jewish trips through such locales are always so memorable. 

Jewish Memories in Salamanca 

There were a number of influential scholars who studied and taught at the University of Salamanca. One of them was the illustrious Abraham Zacuto, who served as the Royal Astronomer of Portugal. His contributions to the field of astronomy allowed for the innovation of navigating practices, which made global exploration easier and more widespread. Salamanca was spared of the brunt of the old pogroms in Spain, although its Jewish beis medrash, or “House of Learning”, was eventually handed over to the university. Interestingly enough, as described by Dr. Henry Abramson, there is a statue in front of this building depicting Luis de Leon, a friar of Jewish ancestry who got into trouble with the authorities, due to his disagreement with the word choice of the Vulgate Bible, citing the more accurate words of the original Hebrew text. 

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What can you find in Porto?

Porto is a stunning city that faces the Atlantic Ocean, a harbor-city that serves as the entrypoint for many Douro River expeditions. It has enduring and pleasant architecture, along with various sites of Jewish heritage, from the old Quarter to the wonderful Kadoorie Mekor Haim synagogue. It’s also known for Port wine, which is grown on the vineyards found along the Douro. 

The Start of a Great Journey

In the first of several travel videos, Dr. Henry Abramson, along with director David Kraus, discussed some of the highlights of the Douro river journey that begins in Porto, such as the tour of Salamanca and the visit to the Belmonte Crypto-Jewish Community. Also, the Ponte D. Maria railway bridge can be seen in the background of the video, a wonderful feat of architecture designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel. It’s only fitting for a great expedition to be graced by such a beautiful sight.

Porto is where you can enjoy great glatt kosher holidays, a scenic city to kickstart a wonderful journey ahead. 

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